A MAN was arrested for resisting a police officer after he defended his wife from 'racist abuse' by a neighbour.

Peter Wilkinson, aged 61, of Randwick Drive, Worcester, admitted resisting a police officer in the execution of his duties when he appeared before district judge Nigel Cadbury at Worcester Magistrates Court.

Owen Beale, prosecuting, said police were called to Randwick Drive on July 17 after reports Wilkinson had been assaulted by somebody else.

However, police ended up arresting Wilkinson instead to prevent a breach of the peace.

“He was shouting at neighbours and trying to cause an argument. They felt if they left him there it would get worse” said Mr Beale.

Officers attempted to handcuff him but Wilkinson resisted. Mr Beale said: “The police constable ended up with a scratch on his palm.”

Wilkinson was last before the court in 2012 for a driving with excess alcohol matter Mr Beale said.

Mark Sheward, defending, said Wilkinson’s wife, an assistant headteacher, had come to visit him.

Mr Sheward said: “She is a lady of colour and whilst she was at the address the neighbour was making racist remarks to her. Mr Wilkinson remonstrated with him and he was assaulted and police were called.

“While police were there this man (the neighbour) was calling his wife names and calling him a 'paedo' for whatever reason that is. He has no convictions for that.

"Police thought it appropriate to take him away to prevent a breach of the peace. He accepts for a short period he struggles with officers. He now regrets his actions and asks to apologise to the court."

Mr Sheward stressed that the injury caused to the officer was 'probably accidental'.

District judge Nigel Cadbury imposed a conditional discharge for 12 months and ordered Wilkinson to pay £135 costs, £100 compensation to the officer and a £20 victim surcharge.